Personal Development Overview

Intent

At River Tyne Academy, we believe that personal development is fundamental to helping young people rebuild confidence, develop resilience, and achieve success beyond the classroom. As an alternative provision, we recognise that many of our pupils have faced challenges in their educational journeys and may have experienced barriers to learning, engagement, and wellbeing. 

Our Personal Development curriculum is designed to support pupils in becoming confident, responsible, and successful individuals who are prepared for the opportunities, responsibilities, and experiences of adult life. We aim to nurture the whole child by promoting emotional wellbeing, positive relationships, self-awareness, and personal responsibility. 

Through a rich programme of PSHE, careers education, enrichment opportunities, community engagement, and wellbeing support, we help pupils develop the knowledge, skills, and character needed to thrive in education, employment, and society. Our curriculum promotes equality, diversity, inclusion, and fundamental British Values, enabling pupils to understand and respect the world around them while developing a strong sense of identity and belonging. 

Implementation

Personal Development is embedded throughout life at River Tyne Academy and is delivered through a range of planned experiences, both within and beyond the classroom. 

Our curriculum provides opportunities for pupils to: 

• Develop emotional resilience, self-regulation, and positive mental health strategies. 

• Build confidence, self-esteem, and aspirations for the future. 

• Understand how to maintain healthy relationships and make informed choices. 

• Explore careers, further education, training pathways, and employment opportunities. 

• Engage with their local community and develop a sense of social responsibility. 

• Learn about equality, diversity, inclusion, and protected characteristics. 

• Develop an understanding of fundamental British Values and active citizenship. 

• Participate in enrichment activities, educational visits, residential experiences, and community projects. 

• Celebrate personal achievements and recognise their strengths and potential. 

Key elements of our Personal Development curriculum include: 

• PSHE and Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE) 

• Mental Health and Wellbeing 

• Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance (CEIAG) 

• Preparation for Adulthood 

• Equality, Diversity and Inclusion 

• Protected Characteristics 

• Fundamental British Values 

• Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural Development (SMSC) 

• Enrichment Activities 

• Educational Visits and Residential Experiences 

• Community Engagement and Volunteering Opportunities 

• Duke of Edinburgh and Personal Achievement Programmes 

Impact

Through our Personal Development curriculum, pupils develop the confidence, resilience, and skills needed to overcome challenges and make positive choices for their futures. 

Pupils leave River Tyne Academy with: 

• Improved self-esteem, confidence, and emotional wellbeing. 

• Greater resilience and the ability to manage setbacks positively. 

• A stronger understanding of healthy relationships, personal safety, and wellbeing. 

• Increased aspirations and clear pathways for education, employment, or training. 

• Respect for diversity and an appreciation of different cultures, beliefs, and perspectives. 

• The skills to contribute positively to their communities and wider society. 

• A sense of belonging, purpose, and optimism for the future. 

Our aim is for every pupil to leave River Tyne Academy feeling valued, respected, and empowered to achieve their potential. We strive to ensure that all pupils develop the character, confidence, and ambition needed to succeed in the next stage of their journey and to make a positive contribution to society.